Manu National Park From Cusco

Manu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers an unforgettable four-day adventure from Cusco. Visitors can enjoy the park’s breathtaking biodiversity, including the vibrant courtship dance of the Cock of the Rock and the remarkable natural wonders of the Peruvian rainforest. With guided canoe trips, nocturnal walks, and a visit to the spectacular parrot clay lick, this tour promises to showcase the unique ecosystems and captivating wildlife that make Manu National Park a must-see destination.

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Key Points

The tour to Manu National Park from Cusco is priced at $679.00 per person and lasts for 4 days.
The tour includes transportation, river transport, a bilingual guide, meals, a first aid kit, and soft drinks.
Highlights of the tour include exploring the Cloud Forest, witnessing the Cock of the Rock courtship dance, and visiting a parrot clay lick.
Visitors can expect to see diverse wildlife and natural wonders, such as endemic species in the Cloud Forest and various parrot species at the clay lick.
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option is available.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour to Manu National Park from Cusco is priced from $679.00 per person and lasts for 4 days.

It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can also opt for the reserve now & pay later option.

The tour includes transportation from Cusco, river transport, a specialized bilingual guide, all meals, a first aid kit, and soft drinks.

However, alcoholic beverages aren’t included.

The tour offers a live guide available in English and Spanish, and travelers should check availability for starting times.

Looking for more options in Cusco? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

The 4-day tour to Manu National Park from Cusco offers an exciting itinerary that showcases the region’s diverse wildlife and natural wonders.

On day one, visitors explore the Cloud Forest, home to the iconic Cock of the Rock.

The next day begins with observing the Cock of the Rock’s courtship dance, followed by a canoe trip on the rivers.

Day three includes a hike in Manu National Park and a night walk to spot nocturnal animals.

The tour culminates with a visit to a parrot clay lick before returning to Cusco.

Day 1: Exploring the Cloud Forest

On the first day, visitors depart from Cusco between 7:00-7:30 a.m. and travel to the colonial town of Paucartambo.

After exploring Paucartambo, the tour ventures into the Cloud Forest, home to endemic species, including the Cock of the Rock.

Venturing into the Cloud Forest, home to endemic species like the captivating Cock of the Rock.

Visitors will:

Witness the stunning natural environment
Spot wildlife like the Cock of the Rock
Hike through the lush, biodiverse forest
Learn about the unique ecosystem
Overnight at the Orquídeas de San Pedro Lodge.

Day 2: Witnessing the Cock of the Rock Dance and Boat Descent

After an early morning start to witness the Cock of the Rock courtship dance, the tour travels to Pilcopata, where visitors can opt for an optional canoe trip on the Koñeq and upper Madre de Dios rivers. The boat descent in Puerto Atalaya leads to an overnight stay at Erika Lodge.

| Activity | Duration | Highlights |

| — | — | — |

| Cock of the Rock Courtship Dance | Early Morning | Witness the vibrant mating ritual of this endemic bird species |

| Canoe Trip | Optional | Observe various wildlife along the river, including monkeys, capybaras, and caimans |

| Boat Descent | Puerto Atalaya | Travel by boat to reach the Erika Lodge for the night |

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Day 3: Hiking in Manu National Park and Canoe Observation

Participants hike into Manu National Park to visit Machuwasi Lagoon, where they can observe hoatzin birds, monkeys, capybaras, and caimans from a canoe.

The tour includes:

Guided hike through the park to explore the unique ecosystem
Canoe ride on the lagoon to observe wildlife
Opportunity to see hoatzin birds, known for their prehistoric features
Chance to spot monkeys, capybaras, and caimans in their natural habitat
Evening night walk after dinner to experience the park’s nocturnal activities.

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

Day 4: Visiting the Parrot Clay Lick

The tour continues with a visit to the parrot clay lick, where participants can observe parrots gathering to consume the nutrient-rich clay.

This unique natural phenomenon attracts hundreds of parrots, creating a colorful and lively spectacle. Visitors can expect to see various parrot species, including macaws and parakeets, interacting at the clay lick.

After the observation, the group will begin the return journey to Cusco, concluding the 4-day adventure in Manu National Park.

The tour provides an opportunity to immerse in the region’s abundant wildlife and experience the beauty of this remarkable protected area.

Accommodations

The tour includes accommodations at two lodges during the 4-day itinerary. On the first night, guests stay at the Orquídeas de San Pedro Lodge. For the following two nights, accommodations are provided at the Erika Lodge.

The lodges offer the following amenities:

Comfortable rooms, meals with vegetarian options, access to natural attractions, guided activities, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Comfortable rooms with en-suite bathrooms
Meals, including vegetarian options
Access to nearby natural attractions
Guided activities and excursions
Opportunities to observe native wildlife

These well-appointed accommodations provide a comfortable base for exploring the wonders of Manu National Park.

Inclusions and Important Information

The tour includes transportation from Cusco and river transport during the excursion, as well as a specialized bilingual guide.

All meals, including a vegetarian option, are provided. The package also includes a first aid kit and beverages, though alcoholic drinks aren’t included.

First-day breakfast and last-day dinner are part of the offering. The tour is available in English and Spanish, and guests should check availability for start times.

The meeting point is available on Google Maps, making it easy to find the starting location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Safe to Travel to Manu National Park?

Manu National Park is generally considered safe for travelers, but visitors should take precautions. The remote location and presence of wildlife require proper planning and following safety guidelines provided by tour operators. The park can be visited safely with appropriate preparation.

What Is the Weather Like During the Tour?

The weather during the tour can vary, with cool and humid conditions in the cloud forest and warmer temperatures in the lowland regions. Travelers should pack layers and prepare for potential rain showers throughout the trip.

Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment?

Yes, visitors can bring their own camera equipment on the tour. The itinerary includes opportunities to photograph endemic wildlife and landscapes, so having a camera is encouraged to capture the memorable sights.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. Participants of all ages are welcome to join, though the activities may not be suitable for very young children. It’s a good idea to check with the tour operator if you have any specific concerns.

How Difficult Is the Hiking in Manu National Park?

The hiking in Manu National Park is moderately difficult, with some steep and uneven terrain. It’s recommended that participants have a good level of fitness and be prepared for a challenging but rewarding experience exploring the park’s diverse ecosystems.

The Sum Up

Manu National Park offers travelers an unforgettable four-day adventure from Cusco. The tour immerses visitors in the park’s breathtaking biodiversity, including the Cloud Forest, Cock of the Rock courtship dance, and parrot clay lick. Guided canoe trips, nocturnal walks, and hiking through lush landscapes provide a unique opportunity to witness the natural wonders and diverse ecosystems of this enchanting Peruvian rainforest.